Building code to require home fire sprinkler systems
Posted on Sep 28th, 2008
Installation of sprinkler systems in new single-family homes and town houses would be required under a change approved to a model building code used by states and cities across the U.S. The change was overwhelmingly approved by building code officials who met this month in Minneapolis.
While home builders challenged the move by the International Code Council, raising doubts about whether homeowners would properly care for such systems, the National Fire Sprinkler Association joined firefighters in backing the effort, citing its life- and property-saving potential.
Individual cities and states that use the code may ignore the sprinkler mandate, which goes into effect in 2009 for town houses and 2011 for single-family homes. But the group’s adoption of the standard means more communities and states are likely to require it.
Media reports, citing industry estimates, put the cost of a sprinkler system at $3,500 for an average new single-family home.
Tags: building code, homes
